My friend set a tight budget for updating her summer wardrobe—here are 9 purchases from Zara, H&M, and COS that I selected.

My friend set a tight budget for updating her summer wardrobe—here are 9 purchases from Zara, H&M, and COS that I selected.

      With discussions of an upcoming heatwave, my group chats have naturally transformed into a whirlwind of sunny plans—beer gardens, picnics in the park, and, of course, the crucial question: what should we wear in 25-degree heat? As usual, the dialogue swiftly shifted to the items worth investing in right now, and I found myself sharing a carefully curated list from the three high-street brands I consistently rely on: Zara, H&M, and COS. Each brand has its unique strengths. COS remains at the forefront for refined summer basics (the Clean Cut T-shirt continues to be an understated favorite), along with polished, high-quality accessories that effortlessly enhance any outfit. In contrast, Zara is my go-to for easy, trend-focused pieces—easy-to-wear dresses, eye-catching silhouettes, and those slightly more avant-garde styles that remain practical. H&M? It reliably offers beautifully tailored linen, from smart trousers to lightweight shirts that simplify warm-weather dressing.

      Together, they demonstrate that the high street offers items that appear far more upscale than their prices indicate, provided you know where to search. So, whether you’re looking for a new pair of linen trousers, a stylish summer dress, or a raffia bag that fits perfectly in the city or on a holiday, these are the recommendations from Zara, H&M, and COS that I suggest right now.

      **Shop Top Summer Picks from Zara, H&M, and COS**

      **The essential wardrobe foundation.**

      **ZARA**

      Midi Dress With Dots

      **H&M linen trousers are top-tier.**

      **H&M**

      Broderie-Anglaise Cotton Popover Shirt

      Elevate denim instantly with this broderie cotton blouse.

      **COS**

      Barrel-Leg Pima Cotton Trousers

      Casual yet polished, the barrel shape provides a subtle fashion edge while maintaining comfort.

      **H&M**

      Linen Halterneck Dress

      The halterneck feature and rich brown color add an elegant touch.

      **COS**

      Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

      A layering staple you'll wear frequently.

      **ZARA**

      Flat Leather Sandals

      **COS**

      Sculpted Dropped-Waist Midi Dress

      The dropped waist creates a look that's both fashionable and wearable.

      **ZARA**

      Zw Collection 100% Linen Fireman Clasp Shirt

      A refined shirt with a distinctive Scandi-inspired clasp detail.

      **ZARA**

      Z1975 Mid-Waist Barrel Jeans With Turn-Up Hems

      Comfortable denim with a laid-back, stylish vibe.

      **COS**

      Saltwater Tote Bag - Straw

      **H&M**

      Wide Wrap-Detail Trousers

      These striped trousers exude a relaxed, high-end appearance.

      **COS**

      Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

      An upgraded take on the classic tank.

      **H&M**

      Linen-Blend Strappy Dress

      A sleek design that transitions beautifully from day to night.

      **H&M**

      Cape-Detail Jersey Dress

      This piece looks incredibly luxurious.

      **COS**

      Cropped Barrel-Leg Cotton Trousers

      Casual, cropped, and oversized in the best ways.

      **ZARA**

      Linen Blend Jacket With Fireman Clasp

      Linen jackets are great for cooler summer evenings.

      **COS**

      Puff-Sleeve Cotton Mini Dress

      An ideal dress for warm weather.

      **H&M**

      Ankle-Length Linen-Blend Trousers

      **ZARA**

      Flat Sandals With Metal Details

      The metallic accents give these a premium feel.

      **H&M**

      Linen-Blend Waistcoat

      **ZARA**

      Zw Collection Satin Halter Dress

      Sleek, minimalist, and designed for summer evenings.

      **The braided detail adds a more upscale touch.**

      **ZARA**

      Belted Darted Bermuda Shorts

      A refined alternative to regular shorts.

      **ZARA**

      Metallic Thread Striped Wide-Leg Trousers

      A subtle statement trouser you'll wear all summer long.

      **Explore More:**

      Zara

      COS

      H&M

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My friend set a tight budget for updating her summer wardrobe—here are 9 purchases from Zara, H&M, and COS that I selected.

From heatwave-appropriate linen and easy-to-wear dresses to refined summer staples and sophisticated accessories, these are the Zara, H&M, and COS items to shop for now.